Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Central New Mexico Community College

Central New Mexico Community College's Liberal Arts associate degree significantly outperforms most alternatives in New Mexico, landing in the 80th percentile statewide while keeping debt remarkably low at just $6,625. That's nearly $4,000 less than the state median for this program and $4,325 below the national average. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.21 means graduates typically owe less than three months of their first-year salary—an enviable position for an associate degree holder.

The $31,000 first-year earnings beat both the state median ($22,417) and national median ($27,248) by substantial margins. While the modest 4% earnings growth to $32,237 by year four won't set records, the low debt burden more than compensates. Compare this to similar programs at New Mexico State campuses where graduates earn slightly less at $27,868—CNM graduates come out ahead despite similar credential levels.

For New Mexico families especially, this represents one of the better values in Liberal Arts associate programs. The combination of above-average earnings and minimal debt creates financial flexibility that's often lacking in community college programs. Students can either enter the workforce with manageable obligations or transfer to a four-year institution without the debt burden that often derails bachelor's degree completion.